Knight Point Walk

Perched on a rugged headland where the Tasman Sea crashes against dramatic cliffs, Knight Point Walk offers one of the most accessible and rewarding short walks on the West Coast. This easy, well-formed track winds through coastal scrub and windswept flax, leading to a lookout that delivers sweeping views of the wild coastline, the Southern Alps, and – if you’re lucky – passing whales and dolphins. It’s the perfect leg-stretch for travellers on the Haast Highway, combining raw natural beauty with a sense of remote isolation.

Highlights & What to See

• Panoramic lookout: The main viewpoint at the end of the walk offers a stunning 180-degree vista of the coast, from the mouth of the Haast River to the distant peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park.
• Whale and dolphin spotting: Scan the ocean for migrating southern right whales (June–October) and pods of dusky dolphins playing in the surf.
• Interpretive panels: Learn about the area’s Māori history, European whaling heritage, and unique coastal ecology at the start of the track.
• Coastal flora: The path is lined with native plants like kānuka, coprosma, and flax, with interpretive signs identifying species.
• Photography opportunities: The golden-hour light on the cliffs and sea stacks is spectacular – bring a camera.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 20–30 minutes for the walk itself, including time to soak in the views. It’s an ideal 15-minute detour from State Highway 6, so you can easily fit it into a day of driving between Haast and Fox Glacier. If you’re a keen photographer or wildlife watcher, budget an extra 15–20 minutes. The track is short and flat, suitable for all fitness levels.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Haast River – Just south, explore the Haast River walkways or join a jet-boat tour into the wilderness.
• Monro Beach Walk – A longer coastal walk (1.5 hours return) where you might spot Fiordland crested penguins.
• Ship Creek – Two short walks (15 min and 30 min) through swamp forest and dunes, with a historic gold-mining site.
• Haast Pass – Drive the scenic highway through the pass, stopping at Thunder Creek Falls and the Blue Pools.
• Fox Glacier – About 1.5 hours north, the glacier valley offers guided walks and heli-hikes.

Please check official sources for current details.